# It Takes a Village: Sources of Spiritual Care in Hospice That Support the Well-being of African-American Hospice Patients and Their Caregivers in the USA

## TL;DR

This study explores how spiritual care in hospice settings supports the well-being of African-American patients and their caregivers in the USA.

## Contribution

The study identifies specific sources of spiritual care that address disparities in perceived quality for African-American hospice patients and caregivers.

## Key findings

- Chaplains and clergy supported social and spiritual well-being.
- Hospice team members focused on the hospice environment and physical well-being.
- Church congregations and families provided social and emotional support.

## Abstract

Spiritual care offers significant benefits to hospice patients and caregivers. However, disparities exist in the perceived quality of spiritual care among African-American caregivers. We interviewed bereaved caregivers of African-American decedents, their chaplains and clergy, and conducted a medical record review to explore the sources of spiritual care that support well-being for African-American patients and caregivers in hospice. We found that both chaplains and clergy supported social and spiritual well-being, whereas other hospice team members were seen as responsible for the hospice environment and physical well-being. Church congregations and families were most involved in providing social and emotional support.